Prime Video to premiere Kashmiri musical drama ‘Songs of Paradise’ on August 29

Srinagar, Aug 21: Prime Video on Thursday announced the global premiere of Songs of Paradise, an inspiring musical drama set against the cultural and emotional landscape of Kashmir.

The film, which draws inspiration from the life and legacy of Padma Shri awardee Raj Begum, will stream exclusively on the platform in India and over 200 countries and territories from August 29.

Presented by Excel Entertainment and produced by Apple Tree Pictures Production and Renzu Films Production, the film is directed by Kashmiri filmmaker Danish Renzu and produced by Shafat Qazi and Renzu. It stars Saba Azad and Soni Razdan in dual timelines as Noor Begum, a character based on Raj Begum, alongside Zain Khan Durrani, Sheeba Chaddha, Taaruk Raina, and Lillete Dubey.

Described by the makers as a poignant tribute to resilience, identity, and courage, Songs of Paradise revisits the story of Kashmir’s first prominent female playback singer, whose music and defiance not only challenged societal barriers but also inspired generations of women.

Manish Menghani, director and head of content licensing at Prime Video India, said the film offers “a fresh and emotional perspective rooted in Kashmir’s rich musical legacy” and will bring to life “a remarkable lesser-known true story of resilience and independence.”

Ritesh Sidhwani of Excel Entertainment called the film “a timeless tale of a champion and torchbearer for artists from the culturally rich land of Kashmir,” while director Danish Renzu said it is “a heartfelt tribute” to Raj Begum, “the first female voice at Radio Kashmir” who dared to dream when it was an “unspoken taboo.”

Danish Renzu added: “Songs of Paradise is a heartfelt tribute to Padma Shri recipient Raj Begum, the first female voice at Radio Kashmir. The film tells an emotionally stirring story inspired by her music, legacy, and grit during a time when societal restrictions bound women within both emotional and cultural confines. It is the story of a woman who dared to dream when dreaming itself was an unspoken taboo. Saba Azad and Soni Razdan beautifully embody the protagonist across two distinct phases of life in this poignant portrait of a true legend, complemented by unmissable performances from a stellar ensemble cast. Thanks to Prime Video, audiences across the world will now be able to witness her story—one that has long deserved a place of pride.”